Cyclists race for $10,000

This weekend, cyclists of all skill levels will take to the streets of Lititz and the surrounding countryside as they vie for recognition and a piece of the $10,00 in prizes offered in the annual Rock Lititz Tour.

Originally called the Tour de Lititz, the event name was recently changed. Rich Ruoff, Pro Cycling Tour operations manager, explains: "The name changed when the guys at Atomic Design, Tait Towers and Clair Brothers came on in support of the race. They want to support this event and see it grow into the future."

Ruoff expects to draw thousands of visitors from all over the east coast. Saturday starts with a ten mile road race through the scenic countryside. On Sunday the tour features two events, an eight-mile uphill time trial and a short and fast criterium race through town. Said Ruoff, "We will have over 300 riders on Sunday."

Ruoff has big plans for growing the annual race. "We want to develop this race into the largest Pro Am bike race in the East over the next several years," he said.

The most spectator-friendly event is the Sunday afternoon Lititz Criterium, which begins at 12:30 p.m. The race starts and finishes in front of the Rudy Building, 27 E. Main St.

"Lititz should expect to see a really fun, high energy event," Ruoff said, "and if they have never seen a bike race before they should be prepared to be impressed!"

Kids’ races with free registration will be held on April 29 at 3:10 p.m. There are four age brackets: ages 4-5, 6-7, 8-9 and 10-12.

More detailed information, including registration information, route maps and event flyers can be found at roadcyclingleague.com. Cyclists can register the day of the event, or online at bikereg.com/Net/15830. Online registration closes on April 26 at 1 p.m.

The registration tent will be located in the vendor expo area in the 100 block of Main St., as will food and beverage vendors. Additionally, entertainment will be provided on the square by Funky Fontana, an eight-piece band.